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Automation company introduces new drive

3rd May 2013

  

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To assist machine builders and end-users in simplifying equipment design and operation, as well as to speed up installation and configuration, the compact Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 525 alternating current (ac) drive was launched last month by industrial automation, power, control and information supplier Rockwell Automation.

Representing the first in the company’s next generation of compact drives, the PowerFlex 525 ac drive features a modular design in power ranges from 0.5 hp to 30 hp or 0.4 kW to 22 kW, at 100 V to 600 V input.

Its embedded EtherNet/Internet protocol (IP), safety, universal serial bus (USB) programming, energy savings and a variety of motor control options are suited for machine-level and standalone applications, as well as simple system integration.

“Thousands of machine builders and end-users informed us of their need for drives that deliver more flexible control, offer better communication and help simplify start-up.

“Our new drive portfolio is designed to give customers the performance they need while helping to lower the total cost to design, develop and deliver machines,” says Rockwell Automation business manager Adrian van Wyk.

Suitable for a range of applications, including conveyors, materials handling, compressors, fans and pumps, the PowerFlex 525 ac drive provides several motor control options to accommodate open- and closed-loop applications.

To help simplify and streamline setup, users can configure the drive through its human interface module, Rockwell Automation Connected Components Workbench software or Rockwell Software Studio 5000Logix Designer.

The PowerFlex 525 ac drive offers time-saving application sets, which are groups of predefined parameters for common drive applications that users can apply as is, or customise for a machine.

Using a standard USB connection, machine builders can easily download the completed configurations and share with multiple drives, speeding up commissioning time substantially.

Removing the control module from the power module further reduces start-up time, as configuration and installation can be under- taken simultaneously. MainsFree programming through a USB connection eliminates the need for main power during drive configuration, as well as the need for special adapters to communicate between the drive and the programming tools.

“Function-rich ac drives at low power ranges offer greater flexibility and ease of use, which significantly reduces setup and installation costs. Original-equipment manufacturers and end-users continue to seek automation equipment that offers lower cost of ownership and a faster payback period for capital investments.

“The PowerFlex 525 ac drive directly tackles these business challenges with more motor control options, flexible programming tools, as well as advanced communication, safety and energy-saving options,” says global market research firm ARC Advisory Group senior analyst Himanshu Shah.

Embedded EtherNet/IP connectivity improves integration with programmable controllers to deliver more application flexi- bility. Optional dual-port EtherNet/IP connectivity supports device-level ring topology, providing a robust network infrastructure.

A safety integrity level 2 certified, embedded safe torque-off feature helps to prevent drive restarts after a safety circuit is tripped, protecting personnel and equipment and reducing production losses.

Further, the drive’s economiser mode helps improve the efficiency of motor energy consumption by monitoring an application’s current demand and automatically refining operating parameters accordingly.

The drive requires 50 mm of clearance space on the top and bottom when installing into a cabinet, and can be mounted zero-stacked both horizontally and vertically. This smaller clearance can help customers reduce the panel space required for the application.

In addition to the flexible installation, the drive is rated up to 50 ºC. With an additional fan kit the drive can withstand temperatures of up to 70 ºC.

Edited by Tracy Hancock
Creamer Media Contributing Editor

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